Leave Policy and Performance of Employees in Universities in South East Nigeria: The Nexus

The study examined the effect of leave policy on employee performance in public universities in South East, Nigeria. The research utilized descriptive survey research design. The population of the study was 4648.Freud and Williams formula was used to determine the sample size of 784.The collected data was analyzed through the use of a mean score. The z-normal distribution t-test was applied in testing the hypotheses. The findings revealed that Annual Leave had a significant positive effect on employee efficiency in public universities in South East, Nigeria, that Study Leave had a substantial impact on employee job satisfaction within public universities in South east Nigeria, and that Maternity Leave had a significant positive effect on employee job efficiency in public universities in South East, Nigeria. The study concluded that while leave policies are essential for maintaining employee well-being and ensuring operational continuity, their impact on organizational performance depends on various factors such as implementation, enforcement, and organizational culture.The study recommended among others that Given the notable impact of Annual Leave on employee efficiency in Public Universities in South East Nigeria, it's crucial to prioritize the implementation of supportive annual leave policies. This includes ensuring adequate staffing coverage during leave periods, promoting a culture of work-life balance, and providing resources for effective leave tracking and management. Additionally, regular evaluations and adjustments to leave policies should be conducted to address evolving employee needs and organizational objectives